Political and visceral punk rock from Vant in Bedford

David Jackson

VANT are back in the region for a special festival warm up gig next week.

After a succession of tracks that were playlisted at Radio 1 and which have exceeded five million plays on Spotify, VANT released their eagerly anticipated debut album Dumb Blood last month via Parlophone. The album combines fiery punk rock and visceral alternative with lyrics commenting on topics including Syria, environmentalism, sexual assault, inequality, racism, religion, social media isolation and the all-out self-destruction of mankind.

Singer Mattie Vant said: “Every time we play a show it’s a form of activism, a form of protest. I wanted to do something that means something, that could have a positive impact. For me, rock music has always gone hand in hand with making a stand, being at the forefront of a movement and trying to change the world.”

Latest single Peace & Love bewails inequality and the off-hand dismissal of the 1960s counterculture ideals in the Brexit age.

VANT head to Esquires in Bedford on March 31 having played the smaller room at the venue 18 months ago. Following Friday’s gig, they play the 2Q Festival in Derby. Support at Esquires is by Tangerines and Timeless Lizards. Doors open at 8pm, ticket cost £11 in advance before fees.

Anyone who wasn’t able to see Dub Pistols headline in Northampton has another chance to see them, this time at Esquires on Saturday, April 1. Doors 8pm, tickets £11.